The singer was due to play the Philharmonic Hall in Liverpool city centre on December 14 and has apologised to fans.

A statement from her management said: “Unfortunately Katie is suffering from exhaustion and has been ordered by her doctors not to work for a few months. “Consequently any touring and promotional activity has been postponed until after Christmas. Katie is going to be absolutely fine, but just needs complete rest.”

A spokesman from the Philharmonic Hall said: “We are hoping to find an alternative date for the Katie Melua concert and we are advising customers currently with tickets to keep hold of them for the time being as these continue to remain valid.

“Liverpool Philharmonic Hall will be in contact with all customers when a rescheduled performance date for Katie has been confirmed.”